External content types are defined through XML files referred to as “BDC metadata models”. These BDC metadata models can be created in both SharePoint Designer and Visual Studio. The technique used to create the BDC metadata models determines the technique used to export it.
- Models created using Visual Studio can be exported directly through the SharePoint UI in a browser (via the BDC service application).
- Models created using SharePoint Designer must be exported using SharePoint Designer
How to Export BDC Metadata Model using the BDC Service Application
Open SharePoint Central Administration | Application Management | Manage Service Applications
Select the Business Data Connectivity Service
Change the view drop-down to BDC Models
From the context menu on the BDC Model choose Export BDC Model
Ensure the file type is set to Model to Export
Select the save location. The exported file is an xml file saved with a .bdcm file extension (Visual Studio SharePoint BDC Designer File)
How to Export BDC Metadata Model using SharePoint Designer
Open the SharePoint site in SharePoint Designer and select External Content Types
Select the External Content Type and choose the Export BDC Model ribbon button
Provide a name for the exported model and the settings profile to export.
The settings refer to the Default and Client settings profiles under on the Connection Properties.
Select save location. The exported file is an xml file saved with a .bdcm file extension (Visual Studio SharePoint BDC Designer File)
Cameron Dwyer 